Dogs are very well-known for their love of napping. Aside from playing, do they really do anything else? But while we often see our pups napping, at one point or another, we have to wonder how much sleep they REALLY need. On average, dogs usually sleep between 12 to 14 hours a day.
However, how much sleep a dog needs depends on their age, breed, size, and overall health. Understanding how much sleep dogs need can help you make sure your furry friend stays healthy and well-rested.
Adequate Sleep Depends on the Dog’s Age and Breed
The normal amount of sleep a dog will require can depend on many different factors, including:
- Age: Puppies and older dogs will usually need much more sleep than young adult dogs. In fact, puppies can sleep up to 19 to 20 hours a day as they grow and develop. Senior dogs may also sleep more than average adult dogs due to their decreased energy and potential health issues.
- Breed and size: Larger dogs, such as Great Danes and Mastiffs, will usually sleep more than smaller breeds because of their large energy expenditure. Smaller breeds, like Yorkies or Chihuahuas, may require less sleep than bigger dogs, but can still fall within the 12- to 14-hour standard.
- Activity level: High-energy dogs may often sleep much less during the day compared to dog breeds that have lower activity levels. Working dogs or dogs that are constantly engaging in intense physical activity may require much more rest to recover from their daily activities.
Puppies Need More Sleep Than Adult Dogs
Puppies require a lot more sleep than adult dogs. Most of the time, they will typically sleep between 18 to 20 hours a day. This huge number of hours is crucial as they grow and develop. During sleep, puppies are not only resting their busy little bodies but also undergoing important physiological changes that support their quick growth.
Puppies will likely sleep in shorter bursts throughout the day instead of in huge blocks. They will often wake up a lot to play, eat, go to the toilet, and explore their exciting new surroundings. Their sleep patterns can be irregular at times as they adjust to their new environment and develop a daily routine.
As they mature, their sleep needs will begin to slowly decrease. Then, it will align more closely with the average 12 to 14 hours that is typical for adult dogs. If you’re worried that your pup is sleeping too much and is too lethargic, speak to your vet. They can assess your dog’s health and explain whether there’s reason for concern.
What Do Dogs Dream About?
You may wonder, “Do dogs dream?” Yes, they sure do! Research has shown that dogs experience rapid eye movement (REM), the stage where dreaming occurs.
During REM sleep, a dog’s brain activity is very similar to that of a dreaming state. During this time, you may even notice your canine companion twitching, paddling their legs, or even making noises while they sleep. These are all indicators that they are dreaming.
While we can’t know for sure what dogs dream about, it is very likely that their dreams involve activities that they would experience during their waking hours. This would include things like playing, interacting with loved ones, and even chasing cats! Just like people, dogs’ dreams are thought to reflect their daily experiences and emotions.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Snore?
Dogs snore—and it’s normal! Just like humans, dogs too can snore and make quite the noise. And, again, just like humans, they can snore due to a huge variety of reasons, such as:
- Breed characteristics: Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short noses and flat faces), such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs, are often much more prone to snoring. Their shortened airways and nasal passages can cause obstructed airflow, causing these sounds while sleeping.
- Obstructed airways: Allergies, respiratory infections, and even obesity can lead to snoring in dogs. If a dog’s airway is obstructed in any way, air passing through can create a snoring sound.
- Sleep position: Sometimes a dog’s sleeping position can affect their airflow and cause them to snore. If a dog sleeps on their back or in certain positions, their throat muscle may even relax and lead to snoring at varying levels.
When Too Much Snoring is a Problem
So, when should you be concerned about your dog snoring too much? Well, it can be hard to say. You should always ask your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog’s health. However, occasional snoring is not usually cause for concern.
If your dog’s snoring is accompanied by other symptoms, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, or changes in behavior, speak to your vet. Persistent and loud snoring could indicate underlying health issues that need immediate treatment.
With a simple vet appointment, you can sleep soundly knowing your pooch is safe and free of any problems.
The Bottom Line: Dogs Sleep a Lot
Understanding your dog’s unique sleep patterns and needs is super important for ensuring their overall health and well-being. Most dogs will need between 12 to 14 hours of sleep a day. However, as we touched on above, this can vary based on their age, breed, size, and activity level.
It is so important to know what your dog’s regular sleep pattern is so that you notice any changes in their schedule that could be a sign of upset. Knowing your dog’s sleep patterns is more than understanding when they sleep; it’s about monitoring their health!
